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County in Southwest England including the Isles of Scilly (Scillies). First recorded in 891 as Cornwalam. The Welsh in Cornavia. From the Latin Cornu meaning horn. West of the Dunnoii (Devon) was the Corneu to the Britons - the land of horn. The second syllable comes from the Old English ‘wahl meaning foreign, as that was how the English called the Britons or the Welsh. Cornwall is a picturesque county located in the southwestern tip of England, known for its rugged coastline, stunning beaches, and rich cultural history. It's a popular destination for tourists, offering everything from charming fishing villages like St. Ives and Port Isaac to the dramatic cliffs of Land's End. Cornwall is also famous for its pasties, cream teas, and its association with the legend of King Arthur, with sites like Tintagel Castle linked to Arthurian myths.

Towns and cities

Truro

Truro is the only city in Cornwall and serves as the administrative and commercial centre. It's known for the stunning Truro Cathedral, with its impressive Gothic Revival architecture. Truro has a vibrant cultural scene, with theatres, museums, and a variety of shops and restaurants.

St. Ives

A picturesque coastal town famous for its art scene, St. Ives has attracted artists for decades, including the renowned Barbara Hepworth. The town is home to the Tate St. Ives gallery and has beautiful beaches, such as Porthmeor and Porthminster.

Penzance

Located in the far west of Cornwall, Penzance is known for its historic harbour, subtropical gardens, and views of St. Michael’s Mount, a tidal island with a medieval castle. The town has a mix of traditional Cornish architecture and more modern amenities.

Falmouth

A vibrant town with a rich maritime history, Falmouth is home to the National Maritime Museum Cornwall and the historic Pendennis Castle. The town also boasts lovely beaches and is a gateway to the scenic Fal River.

Newquay

Known as the surf capital of the UK, Newquay is famous for its beautiful beaches, including Fistral Beach, which hosts international surfing competitions. The town is popular with tourists and offers a lively atmosphere with plenty of bars, restaurants, and shops. • Bedruthan Steps is a breathtaking coastal area located on the north coast of Cornwall, England, between Newquay and Padstow. It is known for its dramatic cliffs, stunning rock formations, and expansive sandy beaches that are revealed during low tide.

Padstow

A charming fishing port, Padstow has gained fame as a foodie destination, largely thanks to celebrity chef Rick Stein’s restaurants. The town is also known for the Obby Oss festival and its proximity to the scenic Camel Trail, a popular cycling route.

St. Austell

One of Cornwall's larger towns, St. Austell was historically known for its china clay industry. Nearby attractions include the Eden Project, a massive botanical garden with biomes that house plants from around the world, and the Lost Gardens of Heligan.

Polperro

A small, picturesque fishing village with narrow streets and whitewashed cottages. Polperro is known for its scenic harbour, smuggling history, and arts and crafts shops.

Bodmin

A town with a rich history, Bodmin is known for its ancient buildings, including Bodmin Jail, which is now a museum. The town is also close to Bodmin Moor, a wild and rugged landscape perfect for walking and exploring.

Liskeard

Located on the edge of Bodmin Moor, Liskeard is a historic market town with a mix of Georgian and Victorian architecture. It's a good base for exploring the moor and nearby attractions like Golitha Falls and the Carnglaze Caverns.

Fowey

A picturesque town situated on the Fowey River, Fowey is known for its literary connections, particularly to author Daphne du Maurier. The town has a busy harbour, narrow winding streets, and lovely riverside views.

Camborne

Another town with a strong mining heritage, Camborne was at the centre of Cornwall’s tin and copper mining industry. The town hosts the annual Trevithick Day, celebrating the life of engineer Richard Trevithick and the region’s industrial past.

Marazion

A small town with a big draw: Marazion is the gateway to St. Michael’s Mount, a tidal island with a historic castle and beautiful gardens. The town itself is quaint, with art galleries, shops, and cafes.

St. Agnes

A picturesque village on the north coast, St. Agnes is known for its stunning coastal scenery and rich mining history. The nearby St. Agnes Heritage Coast is part of a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

Looe

A traditional fishing town divided by the River Looe, with East Looe being more commercial and West Looe retaining a quieter, village feel. Looe is popular for its sandy beach, fishing trips, and fresh seafood.

Launceston

Often referred to as the "gateway to Cornwall," Launceston is a historic town with a Norman castle that overlooks the surrounding area. The town has a rich medieval heritage and is close to the border with Devon.

Redruth

Once at the heart of Cornwall’s tin mining industry, Redruth is part of the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape World Heritage Site. The town has a rich industrial heritage and is a great place to learn about Cornwall's mining history.

Helston

A traditional Cornish town, Helston is known for the Flora Day festival, which celebrates the arrival of spring with music, dancing, and parades. The town is also close to the Lizard Peninsula, the most southerly point of mainland Britain.

Wadebridge

Situated along the Camel River, Wadebridge is a market town known for its proximity to the Camel Trail, a popular cycling and walking route that runs to Padstow. The town has a lively atmosphere with shops, cafes, and an annual Royal Cornwall Show.

Hayle

Known for its long sandy beaches and rich industrial history, Hayle was once a major port and centre of the copper and tin industry. The town is now popular with holidaymakers and nature enthusiasts, with the nearby RSPB Hayle Estuary attracting birdwatchers.

Area

3,550 sq. km / 1,370 sq. miles (excluding Scillies)

Population

564,000 (2022)

Topography

Cornwall is a peninsula bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the north and west, the English Channel to the south, and the River Tamar to the east, which separates it from the rest of England. Its coastline stretches for about 400 miles, featuring dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and hidden coves. The region's landscape is diverse, with moorlands like Bodmin Moor, rolling countryside, and picturesque coastal villages.

Commerce

Historically, Cornwall's economy was based on mining, fishing, and agriculture. The tin mining industry, once a global powerhouse, has declined, but remnants of this heritage can be seen in the many abandoned mines that dot the landscape. Fishing remains important, with towns like Newlyn and Padstow still active fishing ports. Today, tourism is a major industry, with visitors attracted to Cornwall's beaches, coastal walks, and cultural heritage. The Eden Project, a large-scale environmental and educational attraction featuring biomes that replicate different global ecosystems, is one of the region's top tourist destinations.

Famous people

John Betjeman, Sir Humphry Davy, Daphne Du Maurier, William Golding, author of 'Lord of the Flies' and Nobel Prize winner, was born near Newquay. John Couch Adams, discoverer of the planet Neptune, went to school in Saltash. Richard Trevithick

Attractions

History

Cornwall has a rich history that dates back to prehistoric times. It was once a centre of the tin mining industry, with evidence of mining activity going back to the Bronze Age. The Cornish people have their own distinct Celtic heritage, and the Cornish language, though not widely spoken, has seen a revival in recent years. The region has many ancient monuments, such as stone circles, standing stones, and medieval castles.

South West Coast Path:

longest national trail in the UK, stretching for 630 miles (1,014 km) along the stunning coastline of south-west England. It begins at Minehead in Somerset and winds its way through Devon, Cornwall, and Dorset, ending at Poole Harbour. The path offers some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery in the country, making it a favourite for hikers, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts. The path passes numerous historical sites, including prehistoric settlements, medieval castles, and ancient quarries. Notable stops include Tintagel Castle (linked to King Arthur), the Minack Theatre, and the remains of old tin mines along the Cornish coast, which are part of the UNESCO World Heritage site.

Attractions

Cawsand:

Picturesque coastal village located on the Rame Peninsula. Along with its neighbouring village, Kingsand, Cawsand offers visitors a charming mix of history, stunning sea views, and a tranquil atmosphere. It is situated on the edge of Plymouth Sound, opposite the city of Plymouth, and has long been popular for its unspoiled beauty and sheltered beaches. Like many coastal villages in Cornwall, Cawsand has a history of smuggling. In the 18th century, the sheltered bays and coves around Cawsand and Kingsand were ideal for smuggling goods such as brandy, tea, and tobacco into the country, avoiding customs duties. Cawsand’s position within Plymouth Sound meant that it played a role in naval defense during periods of conflict. The nearby Fort Picklecombe and Penlee Battery are remnants of the coastal defenses established to protect the important naval base at Plymouth.

Barn Pool Bay:

Barn Pool Bay is nestled within the Mount Edgcumbe Country Park, a historic estate with expansive gardens, woodlands, and coastal paths. The bay offers views across to Plymouth and Drake’s Island. The bay’s sheltered nature makes it a calm spot for swimming and kayaking, especially popular with those seeking a quiet retreat from the more crowded beaches in the area. During World War II, Barn Pool played a role in military operations. Nearby, Fort Picklecombe and other military structures were part of Plymouth’s defence system.

St. Ives:

Known for its art scene, with galleries like the Tate St. Ives and the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden.

St. Mawes:

Picturesque fishing village situated on the eastern side of the entrance to the River Fal and the beautiful Carrick Roads estuary. Known for its charming harbour, historic castle, and stunning views across the water, St. Mawes is a popular destination for visitors seeking a tranquil yet scenic coastal experience. One of the main historical attractions in the village is St. Mawes Castle, built by Henry VIII in the 1540s as part of a series of coastal fortifications designed to protect against French and Spanish invasion. St. Mawes Castle, along with its counterpart across the water, Pendennis Castle, defended the strategic entrance to the River Fal and the harbour at Falmouth. It is remarkably well-preserved and visitors can explore its circular towers, gun platforms, and scenic grounds. The castle provides panoramic views over the estuary, making it both a historical and scenic highlight.

The Lost Gardens of Heligan:

A restored garden that had been overgrown and forgotten for decades.

Porthcurno Beach:

A stunning beach known for its white sand and turquoise waters, located near the famous Minack Theatre.

Mousehole:

A charming fishing village with narrow streets and a picturesque harbour. It’s one of the most beautiful and historic villages in Cornwall, famous for its narrow streets, granite cottages, and charming harbour. With its rich maritime history, artistic community, and traditional Cornish atmosphere, Mousehole (pronounced "Mowzel") is a popular destination for visitors seeking a tranquil yet culturally vibrant setting. One of the most dramatic events in Mousehole’s history occurred in 1595 when the village was attacked and burned by Spanish forces during the Anglo-Spanish War. Almost the entire village was destroyed, except for one building, The Keigwin Arms, which still stands today as a private residence.

Tintagel Castle:

One of the most famous historical sites is Tintagel Castle, linked to the legend of King Arthur. According to legend, this is where King Arthur was conceived, and the ruins of the castle perched on a cliff above the sea make it a popular destination for visitors. Tintagel Castle was built in the 13th century by Richard, Earl of Cornwall, though the site has a history of earlier occupation dating back to the Roman and Dark Ages. It was strategically important due to its coastal position and was likely used as a royal stronghold or settlement.

Porthleven:

Charming harbour town known for its rich maritime history, dramatic coastal scenery, and vibrant food scene. It’s located between Helston and The Lizard Peninsula, and is one of Cornwall’s most scenic and unspoiled fishing villages. Porthleven has become a popular destination for visitors seeking authentic Cornish culture, stunning sea views, and excellent seafood. Porthleven is built around the historic harbour, which is the most southerly working port in mainland Britain. It developed as a fishing and trading port in the early 19th century. The harbour was built to offer refuge for boats facing the dangerous seas along the Lizard Peninsula, which is notorious for shipwrecks. Like much of Cornwall, Porthleven has connections to the tin mining industry, which was once central to the region’s economy. Goods, including tin, were exported from its harbour during the 19th century.

Land’s End:

The westernmost point of mainland England, offering stunning sea views and dramatic coastal scenery.

Eden Project:

Opened in 2001, it is famous for its massive biomes that house thousands of plant species from diverse climates, creating one of the largest and most fascinating indoor rainforests in the world. • Rainforest Biome: The larger of the two, this biome replicates a tropical rainforest climate and is home to exotic plants such as giant bamboo, rubber trees, and banana plants. It offers visitors a unique immersive experience of a jungle environment, complete with waterfalls and treetop walkways. • Mediterranean Biome: This biome simulates the climate found in Mediterranean regions, California, and parts of South Africa. It features olive trees, grape vines, and fragrant herbs, along with a warm, dry atmosphere.

The Minack Theatre:

An open-air theatre carved into a cliff, with a backdrop of the ocean.

Boscastle:

Small, picturesque village located on the rugged north coast of Cornwall, known for its dramatic coastline, quaint harbour, and rich history, Boscastle is a popular destination for visitors seeking natural beauty and a peaceful, unspoiled atmosphere. The village is set within a steep-sided valley where the River Valency and River Jordan meet before flowing into the sea, creating a unique and scenic environment. The surrounding coastline is part of the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), with dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Valency Valley is a lush, wooded area that stretches inland from the village, offering beautiful walking trails alongside the river, leading to nearby villages and points of interest.

Coverack:

Small, idyllic fishing village on the eastern side of the Lizard Peninsula known for its peaceful atmosphere, stunning coastal scenery, and traditional Cornish charm, Coverack is a popular destination for visitors seeking a quieter side of Cornwall. The village is nestled in a natural cove with a sandy beach and is surrounded by unspoiled countryside, making it a perfect spot for those interested in walking, water sports, and relaxation. The village is perched on the slopes above the bay, offering stunning views of the coastline and Manacle Rocks, a reef of jagged rocks known for shipwrecks just offshore. The coastline is part of the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and features dramatic cliffs, rolling hills, and picturesque coves. Like many Cornish coastal villages, Coverack developed as a fishing community. Its harbor was built in the 18th century, and for centuries, fishing was the main livelihood of its residents, with pilchards and crabs being the primary catches.

Helford River:

Beautiful tidal river known for its serene estuaries, lush woodlands, hidden coves, and picturesque villages. It flows into the English Channel, and its tranquil waters, combined with rich biodiversity and a sense of timelessness, make it a popular spot for boating, walking, and wildlife watching. The Helford River is also historically significant, with ties to maritime trade, agriculture, and even smuggling. The Helford River is more of an estuary than a river, with several small creeks branching off, including the famous Frenchman’s Creek, which became widely known through Daphne du Maurier’s 1941 novel of the same name. The river runs from Gweek inland, winding its way past various woodlands and fields, before meeting the sea near the village of Helford. The riverbanks are lush and green, with areas of ancient oak forests running down to the water’s edge, creating a rich habitat for wildlife and offering breathtaking views of the tranquil water. The area is part of the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), and its unspoiled, rural atmosphere makes it a haven for those looking for a quiet escape into nature. Gweek is located at the head of the Helford River and is known for its boatyard and the Cornish Seal Sanctuary, which rescues and rehabilitates injured or sick seals. The sanctuary is a popular attraction, especially for families, and offers a chance to learn more about local wildlife and conservation efforts.

Culture

Cornwall has a strong cultural identity, with traditions, music, and festivals that reflect its Celtic roots. The Cornish language, though nearly extinct in the 19th century, has been revived and is now taught in schools and used in local signage. Festivals like Obby Oss in Padstow, celebrating the arrival of summer, and Golowan in Penzance, a midsummer festival, are important cultural events in the region. The Cornish are also proud of their culinary traditions. The Cornish pasty, a pastry filled with meat and vegetables, is perhaps the most famous food associated with Cornwall. The region is also known for Cornish clotted cream, often served with scones in a traditional cream tea.

Myths and Legends

Cornwall is rich in folklore, with tales of giants, mermaids, and smugglers. The Mermaid of Zennor is one such legend, where a mermaid is said to have lured a local man into the sea. The region's rugged landscape has inspired many such stories, and it's often associated with the mysterious and the magical.

Language

Cornish (Kernewek) is a Celtic language closely related to Welsh and Breton. Although it fell out of everyday use in the 18th century, efforts to revive the language began in the 20th century, and today it is taught in some schools and used in cultural activities.

Weather

Cornwall enjoys a relatively mild maritime climate, thanks to the Gulf Stream, which brings warmer air to the region. Summers are generally warm, while winters are mild but can be wet and windy, especially along the coast.

The Scilly Isles (or Isles of Scilly) are a beautiful archipelago off the south-west coast of Cornwall, England, known for their unique climate, stunning natural beauty, and rich history. Located about 28 miles (45 kilometres) off Land's End, they are a popular tourist destination due to their mild weather, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife.

Topography

The Isles of Scilly consist of around 140 islands and islets, though only five of the islands are inhabited. These are St. Mary's, Tresco, St. Martin's, Bryher, and St. Agnes. St. Mary's is the largest and most populated of the islands. The landscape is characterized by crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, rugged granite cliffs, and lush subtropical gardens. The Scillies benefit from the warm waters of the Gulf Stream, which gives the islands a milder climate than mainland Britain, supporting exotic plants and flowers.

History

• Prehistoric and Roman Influence: The Scilly Isles have been inhabited since prehistoric times. Bronze Age monuments, including stone cairns and burial chambers, can be found scattered across the islands, especially on St. Mary's and Tresco. Roman artefacts have also been discovered, indicating that the islands were known to and possibly occupied by the Romans. • Medieval Period: During the Middle Ages, the Scilly Isles were part of the Cornish cultural and economic sphere, with the islands under the control of the Abbey of Tavistock. The islands played a role in medieval maritime trade and were frequently visited by sailors. St. Mary's became the central point for the defence of the islands, with Star Castle being built in the late 16th century during the reign of Elizabeth I to protect the islands from Spanish invasion. • 17th Century Civil War: The Isles of Scilly were a key strategic location during the English Civil War (1642–1651). The islands initially remained Royalist and were a base for piracy and privateering. Eventually, Parliamentary forces, led by Sir Robert Blake, captured the islands. • Modern Era: In the 19th and early 20th centuries, the economy of the Isles of Scilly relied heavily on fishing, farming, and shipwreck salvage, but tourism became an increasingly important part of the economy from the mid-20th century onwards.

Key Islands

• St. Mary's: The largest and most populated island, St. Mary's is the main hub for visitors. Hugh Town is the capital, home to a charming harbour, shops, and restaurants. Notable landmarks include Star Castle, the Garrison Walls, and several prehistoric sites such as Bant's Carn (a Bronze Age burial chamber) and Halangy Down (an ancient village). St. Mary's also has a small airport, and regular ferry services connect the island to the mainland. • Tresco: Famous for the Tresco Abbey Gardens, which feature subtropical plants from around the world, Tresco is a horticultural paradise. The gardens were established by Augustus Smith in the 19th century and remain one of the islands' major attractions. Tresco is known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful beaches such as Pentle Bay and Appletree Bay. • St. Martin's: Known for its stunning beaches, St. Martin's boasts long stretches of white sand and clear blue waters, including Great Bay and Par Beach. St. Martin's is also home to a vineyard, making it a delightful spot for wine lovers. • Bryher: The smallest of the inhabited islands, Bryher offers a peaceful retreat with rugged coastal scenery and sheltered beaches. Hell Bay, on the western side of the island, is famous for its wild, untamed beauty. • St. Agnes: The southernmost of the inhabited islands, St. Agnes is known for its charm and remoteness. It is linked to the tiny island of Gugh by a sandbar at low tide. Visitors to St. Agnes can explore the lighthouse and enjoy birdwatching, particularly during migration seasons.

Wildlife and Nature

The Isles of Scilly are a haven for wildlife, particularly seabirds and marine life. The islands are an important breeding ground for many bird species, including puffins, razorbills, and Manx shearwaters. The surrounding waters are home to seals, dolphins, and occasionally basking sharks. The islands are also an important stopover for migrating birds, and birdwatchers from around the world visit the islands during the autumn migration season to spot rare species. The Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust works to conserve the unique natural habitats found on the islands.

Tourism

Tourism is a major part of the economy in the Isles of Scilly, and the islands attract visitors looking for a peaceful and picturesque getaway. • Walking and Hiking: With miles of coastal paths, the islands are ideal for walking and hiking, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding islands. Beachcombing and Watersports: The clear waters and pristine beaches make the islands perfect for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. • Boating and Island Hopping: Regular boat services connect the islands, allowing visitors to explore each island’s unique character. Visitors can also take wildlife- spotting trips to see seals, seabirds, and other marine creatures.

How to Get There

• By Air: The Isles of Scilly are accessible by air from Land's End, Newquay, and Exeter. Flights land at St. Mary's Airport, which is the main gateway to the islands. • By Sea: The Scillonian III passenger ferry operates between Penzance and St. Mary's, offering scenic views of the Cornish coast and the archipelago. There are also cargo ships and smaller ferries connecting the islands. The Isles of Scilly offer a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and tranquillity, making them one of the UK's most cherished and unspoiled destinations. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins, relaxing on secluded beaches, or enjoying the vibrant subtropical gardens, the Scillies provide an idyllic escape with a sense of timeless charm.

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